The 2008 Baldwin Braves football team went into the year with a number of self-imposed goals and expectations — and they only came up one goal short.

But even without the AAA state champions title, the senior captains and their head coach, Jesse Hicks, consider this season a success.

For the first time in history a Baldwin football team went undefeated in the regular season, landing the school’s first region championship in 23 years.

“I don’t care if it’s Valdosta, Lowndes, Warner Robins, or any Atlanta schools, with Coach Hicks I think we have the best football program in the state of Georgia,” said senior defensive captain Corrico Hawkins, who led the team in tackles with 112.

Hawkins is one of the seniors looking to sign to play at the next level.

“I’m very blessed. I’m blessed with a wife that’s understanding and is the ultimate team mother, whom I love very much,” said Hicks. “I have kids who know every player’s name and number. I have the very best coaches in the state of Georgia, not to mention the very best kids on this football team, bar none.” Courtney Ingram, a three-year starter on defense, was second on the team in tackles with 87.

“We have a lot of underclassman who will carry the torch proudly for this school and with a lot of success,” said Ingram. “They have been in the trenches with us and know the discipline and hard work it takes to get there.”

Jerrico Ford, who led the team with 1,264 yards rushing to go along with 15 touchdowns, also used the word dedicated when describing the Baldwin team. Each player, when talking about last week’s loss, seemed to remain filled with self-pride.

“We have another group of players ready and able to step into the roles these guys are leaving, and we believe our success has just begun,” said Hicks of next year’s team. “We know this isn’t a business, but education and that’s why our kids respond so well. No matter whether its health, math or football, you must be personable with the kids and that’s our secret to winning. We teach them all the same way, and for us, it starts with the love for each other and the people you work for and with.

“During last week’s game, I looked around and saw a number of former players out there supporting us, and after the game I had phone calls from others that were hurting for us because of our loss,” said Hicks.

Hicks said some of the major supporters for his team week in and week out were the Baldwin band members and parents, led by director Clint Raburn.

“They were always there for us, no matter what,” said Hicks.

Other seniors on this year’s team included Josh Finney, Marcus Cabiness and Jarrius Nelson — all of whom also used words like love, family, togetherness and heart when describing the team the will soon leave behind.

“I am very proud to be the head football coach and athletic director at Baldwin High School,” said Hick.

On Dec. 13 in the Baldwin gym, the football team, along with the girls volleyball team, will have their respective region championships recognized before the girls’ basketball game (volleyball) and at halftime of the boys’ game (football).